Metronidazole (Injection)

Introduction

Metronidazole (met-roe-NYE-da-zole)

Treats infections caused by bacteria. Also used to prevent infections before and after surgery.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Metronidazole

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to metronidazole or to similar medicines (such as azanidazole).

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.

A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.

Your doctor will give you a few doses of this medicine until your condition improves, and then switch you to an oral medicine that works the same way. If you have any concerns about this, talk to your doctor.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using cimetidine (Tagamet®), disulfiram (Antabuse®), medicine for seizures (such as phenobarbital, phenytoin, Brevital®, Dilantin®, Fiorinal®, Mysoline®, or Seconal®), or a blood thinner (such as warfarin, Coumadin®).

Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine

Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, blood or bone marrow problems, oral thrush, a vaginal yeast infection, fluid problems (edema), or a history of seizures.

Check with your doctor right away if you are having burning, numbness, tingling, or painful sensations in the arms, hands, legs, or feet. These could be symptoms of a condition called peripheral neuropathy.

Check with your doctor right away if you have dizziness, problems with muscle control or coordination, shakiness or an unsteady walk, slurred speech, or trouble with speaking. These may be symptoms of a serious condition called encephalopathy.

Call your doctor right away if you have confusion, drowsiness, fever, a general feeling of illness, a headache, loss of appetite, nausea, a stiff neck or back, or vomiting. These could be symptoms of a serious condition called meningitis.

If your symptoms do not improve or if they get worse, call your doctor.I